A new survey by leading dementia charity Alzheimer’s Society reveals almost one in three people (30%) in the UK don’t know who lives next door to them.

The findings published today highlight a need for stronger community ties, particularly for people living with dementia who are more vulnerable to isolation.

The survey of 2,100 adults across the UK found that in the West Midlands, 31% say they don’t know their neighbours well, with a third (33%) saying they would feel uncomfortable inviting a person they knew were by themselves to eat Christmas dinner with them.

Over eight in ten of those surveyed (83%) overall, believed that people living with dementia and their carers need more support from everyone and over three quarters (78%) agreed that urgent action is needed – highlighting the importance of support for those affected.

Dementia is caused by different diseases that damage the brain. The symptoms get worse over time and include memory loss, confusion, problems with language and understanding and changes in behaviour. This can lead people living with symptoms to avoid social interactions and become isolated.

Studies have shown that social isolation can increase a person’s risk of dementia by about 60%. Staying socially connected helps build what’s known as cognitive reserve – the brain’s ability to cope with damage such as diseases like Alzheimer’s disease. Social interaction can strengthen resilience, reduce stress and boost mood, all of which support brain health.

The charity is asking for support for its appeal – Reimagine Christmas – so that its lifechanging support services are available for the 87,000 people living with dementia in the West Midlands, and that no one is left to face the condition alone.

Donations to the appeal will help fund Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Support Line, which connects people affected by dementia or caring for someone with dementia with specially trained Dementia Advisers. Last year, 23,000 people in crisis called the Dementia Support line over the winter period.

Michelle Dyson CB, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Society, said: “Christmas is traditionally a time for joy, laughter and creating memories. But for around one million people in the UK living with dementia, the festive season can be a painful reminder of how once familiar traditions become harder to hold onto.

“Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer, with one in three people born today expected to develop the condition. Our survey reveals that people recognise the need for increased support for people affected but don’t know how they can help.

“Loneliness at Christmas is a painful reality for many, especially those affected by dementia. It will take a society to beat dementia and, with your support, we can be here for more people affected by dementia with our lifechanging support services when they need us most.”

Andy Norris, from Coventry, care for his wife Kim who was diagnosed with a rare form of dementia called Posterior Cortical Atrophy in 2021.

Andy said: “Christmas Day will be just the two of us through choice. Kim can’t process things quickly enough if there are a lot of conversations going on and she shuts down.

“She is happy to sense the family having a good time, but she can’t join in. By the time she has thought of an answer the conversation has moved on. She can’t keep up. It upsets her emotionally.

“When Kim wrapped presents she used to do swirly ribbons and bows, but there’s no way she could do that now. Cooking Christmas dinner is down to me – it used to be a shared experience.

“The biggest struggle is crowds – in our village there is a Christmas light switch-on. We usually have to leave early before it gets busy as the crowds and music are too much for Kim.

“I’d urge anyone to support Alzheimer’s Society this Christmas. Your donation will be used to help carers like me feel supported, understood, and less alone.”

To donate to Alzheimer’s Society’s Reimagine Christmas appeal or find out more, visit alzheimers.org.uk/Christmas

If you are worried about yourself, a loved one or neighbour with dementia, please contact Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.